TP-Link Adds Archer C8 Wireless AC1700 Dual-Band Router

The Archer C8 is targeting the digital home, typically comprised of multiple devices and high-bandwidth activities like online gaming, media streaming and Internet phone calling. With up to 1.75 Gbps of total available bandwidth, the Archer C8 supports the latest 802.11ac Wi-Fi technology and is backward compatible with existing 802.11n mobile devices.

The Archer C8 comes with one gigabit WAN port and four gigabit LAN (Ethernet ports) for high-speed wired connections to computers, TVs and game consoles. Other performance features include an 800MHz dual-core CPU; three detachable dual band antennas with omni-directional wireless coverage and reliability; and advanced beamforming technology that locates multiple connected devices across a home, delivering a more targeted and efficient wireless connection.

The new router operates simultaneously over the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, providing users with two dedicated networks for optimal throughput. Simple tasks like sending e-mails or web browsing can be handled by the 2.4GHz band, while bandwidth intensive tasks can be processed in a fast, buffer-free mode in the less congested 5GHz band. Consumers can now better meet their digital entertainment high-bandwidth needs when using a Blu-ray player, Roku, or Xbox.

Additionally, the Archer C8 boasts Quality of Service (QoS) prioritization capabilities. Internet bandwidth for individual applications and devices can be prioritized by the user and controlled automatically. For instance, with QoS in place, a gamer can prioritize game traffic over other network traffic for an entirely lag-free experience.

Sharing Files and Media Streaming is Simplified
The Archer C8 includes dual multifunction USB ports (USB 2.0 and USB 3.0) for attaching any USB compatible storage device for simplified file sharing between connected devices on a network. The USB 2.0 port is often used for sharing a printer, while the USB 3.0 port with higher data transfer speeds is well suited for media streaming via a connected USB external hard drive.

Highlights of Archer C8

• Supports 802.11ac wireless standard
• Dual-band for combined wireless speeds of up to 1.75Gbps (simultaneous use of 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands)
• Three dual band detachable antennas provide omni-directional wireless coverage and reliability
• Full gigabit ports for ultra-fast data transfer speeds
• Compatible with 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac devices
• Dual USB ports (USB 3.0 and USB 2.0)
• Guest Network Access
• IPv6 supported
• IP-based Bandwidth Control
• Easy one-touch WPA wireless security encryption with the WPS button
• WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encryptions provide user networks with active defense against security threats

"The premium nature of the new Archer C8 illustrates TP-LINK's commitment in providing a superb digital home consumer experience," says Mark Macaulay, director of sales for TP-LINK Canada. "Today's routers must be Gigabit Wi-Fi enabled and offer more wireless coverage, reliability and performance."

Pricing and Availability
The Archer C8 has a suggested list price of $149.99 (CAD) and is available now.